Program Overview

Applied Behavior Analysis, M.S.

The Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) program at Georgia State University is designed to train students in the science of behavior analysis, with a focus on applying this knowledge to real-world problems. The program is recognized as a Tier 2A program by the Association for Behavior Analysis International.

Program Description

The mission of the ABA program is to train the next generation of behavior-analytic scientist-practitioners who are grounded in the concepts, principles, philosophy, and evidence-based practices derived from the experimental and applied analysis of behavior. The program aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to apply this knowledge to problems of social significance, and to prepare them for clinical practice, doctoral study, or both.

Program Features

• Collaborations with faculty members
• Opportunities for applied fieldwork and research experiences
• Emphasis on ethical, compassionate, and inclusive applications of the science of behavior
• Cohort model that fosters lasting professional relationships

Admission Requirements

• Application deadline:
  • Fall: February 1
  • Spring: Does Not Admit
  • Summer: Does Not Admit
• Online application
• Application fee of $50
• Goals statement (500-1,000 words)
• Resume
• Two letters of recommendation
• Official transcript(s) with earned bachelor's degree

Curriculum

The ABA program consists of the following requirements:

• Professional Studies (9 credit hours)
• Major (12 credit hours)
• Applied Practice (6 credit hours)
• Thesis (9 credit hours)
• Program total: minimum of 36 semester hours

Optional ABA Professional Specialization Certificate

The purpose of this certificate is to equip ABA Master's students with advanced knowledge related to their intended population and setting for practice after graduation, and to shape competencies related to interdisciplinary collaboration. Students who complete this optional add-on certificate will complete one of five specializations, chosen in consultation with their advisor, each with specific associated coursework:

• Autism and Developmental Disabilities
• Preschool and Early Childhood Special Education
• Science of Reading
• Students Who Are at Risk
• Health Literacy

Funding Opportunities

Various awards, assistantships, and fellowships are available to new and current graduate students, including:

• Graduate Research Assistantships
• Project Behavioral Early Education Scholars (BEES)

Career Opportunities

Nationally, annual demand for individuals holding BCBA certification has increased every year since 2010. Many BCBAs work in fields related to intellectual and developmental disabilities and Autism Spectrum Disorder, with other practice areas continuing to grow.

Program Details

• Admissions Requirements
• Curriculum
• Tuition
• Goals & Outcomes
• Additional Information

Core Faculty

• Dr. Jennifer Austin
• Dr. Daniel-Conine
• Dr. Shreeya Deshmukh
• Dr. Christopher Tullis

Associated Faculty

• Dr. Sarah Hansen
• Dr. Megan Mowbray

Alumni Spotlight

Meet Whitney Trapp, M.S. ABA, and Gereen Francis, M.S. ABA, who have applied their knowledge and skills to form their own consulting businesses and work in autism centers.

Research Opportunities

Starting in the Fall of 2025, all students in the ABA program will complete an applied research project as part of their studies. This project will be completed across three consecutive semesters with direct support and mentorship from program faculty.